How did customers become aware of Keil?
H.-J. Keil: Back then, a lot of it was word of mouth and recommendations from existing customers. Through mergers of existing customers and relocations to other production countries, we have already received our first orders abroad.
By participating in the Achema trade fair in 1992, we were also able to acquire many international customers. At the time, Achema was the largest chemical trade fair with around 280 thousand visitors from all over the world. Our advantage at the trade fair was that there were more mechanical engineering companies than processing companies exhibiting at the time.
At our first exhibition at Achema, we shared a stand with the IHK Norddeutschland, which covered 200 square metres, of which we took up around 15 square metres.
The trade fair was a great success and we regularly took part in Achema until 2006.
How did we stand out as a plant manufacturer?
H.-J. Keil: We have been regularly recommended by our existing customers. To be honest, there was hardly any competition in this segment in the first 10 years since the company was founded. In the 1990s, there was a "wave" that led many companies to relocate their production sites to low-wage countries. As a plant manufacturer, we were on hand with help and advice during this realisation.
In particular, we have continuously developed and dealt with the chemical and physical requirements of materials. Due to new requirements, we have developed from a specialised company into a consulting partner for technical solutions. All projects involve customised products that require explanation. We still adhere to our philosophy of finding and providing solutions and benefits for our customers, and have done so for 50 years now.
Thank you very much Hans-Jürgen for your time. 